Recommendations Needed for Turn Signal Lever

[Depewtee]

Hi All!

I am making plans for installing my new R&M fiberglass dash into my '84 MC-9 and I am trying to determine which switches I will need.  Currently my turn signals are activated by depressing (and holding ) a switch on the floor.  The clearance and headlights are on separate toggle switches and the high beams are activated by (yet another) switch on the floor.  I would really like to "upgrade" to a turn signal lever mounted on the column, preferably one that would allow control of turn signals, headlights (high/low), and wipers (although wipers are not high on the list).  I have searched the Internet and there seem to be plenty of options.  What do you all recommend?

Brian

[NJT 5573]

Brian,

I think the bus stuff is pretty much fail safe in a commercial sort of way. I see changing it as more of a down grade. Its not hard to get used to and its real dependable. Those circuits are pretty well protected and built for heavy use. I'm used to Turn Signals, (Truck), that don't cancel and like the foot set up just fine. The dimmer is basically the same old automotive we have had for years and the whole set up has a good parts availability. The head/marker light switches are also the industry wide standard. Anyone can trouble shoot them and repair them easily and they may become a 1 man system if customized, but there's nothing wrong with that as long as you understand it.

Guess if you really want to, keep in mind the voltage and amps you are working with and get comparable replacements. Do you have electric wipers, or are you thinking of an electric over air system or something?

[Sojourner]

Grote

Signal Stat


My choice is the Grote without the wiper switch. It come with lift to dim, end button to flash markers and four-way flasher.

I got mine at a truck salvage yard but be sure you get the adapter harness to go with it.

Sojourn for Christ, Gerald

BTW...all the connection will be out of the weather instead of the floor version.

[Depewtee]

NJT 5573 - Yes, the wiper motors have already been converted to electric.  Actually, one of my first comments to the previous owner when I picked up the bus was about how cool the floor mounted turn signals were.  The problem with using them has to do with my short legs.  At 5'5", and with the aftermarket captain's chair, the distance from the back of my knee to my heel is not enough to reach the floor, so I have to activate, and hold, the turn signals with the toe of my foot while my foot is "suspended" in air.  Coupled this with the fact that the right turn signal switch is worn/needs cleaning and I have to practically stand to make a right turn.  I have tried adjusting the seat and looked at raising the switches - neither option seems to be a good one.  Also, when I wear my running shoes to drive (which is most of the time), the light soles allow the switches to dig into the ball of my left foot (I know.... call me a wimp).  I am a BIG proponent of using turn signals to relay my intent to other drivers, whether it be for a turn, lane change, or even sitting in a turn only lane waiting for the light to change.

The floor mounted bright/dim switch is not as bad as I can activate it while the heel of my foot is on the ground, or just "stomp" as it only needs to be pushed and not held.

Sojourner - The links are just what I needed.  I had been looking at the Grote site for a couple of days and was confused as to which option would be the best.

Thanks to all,
Brian

[Busted Knuckle]

Brian,
My Setra's have exactly what you are looking for! And everyone I have ever worked on or owned was set up that way. (All the way back to the 1986 model I worked on for a guy in a truck stop parking lot one night!)

Might see if you can find a set up from a Setra somewhere! I know Sawyer's, Easter's and US Coach all used to have some old Setra's out back. FWIW!   BK